West Africa pushes gas expansion through regional integration

West African countries are seeking deeper regional integration and expanded cross-border gas infrastructure to strengthen energy security, lower electricity generation costs and support economic growth across the sub-region.

Speaking at the 2026 West Africa Gas Summit in Accra, Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, said regional cooperation in the gas sector remains essential to unlocking the full economic benefits of the region’s natural gas resources.

He cited the West African Gas Pipeline as a successful example of regional collaboration, noting that greater interconnection and cross-border trade could make energy markets more resilient and attractive to investors.

“The more integrated our markets are, the more resilient and appealing they become,” Mr. Gyan-Mensah said.

The deputy minister said natural gas plays a critical role in supporting industrialisation, manufacturing and power generation. In Ghana, domestic gas fields currently supply about 80 percent of the natural gas used for power generation and industrial applications, helping to reduce reliance on more expensive liquid fuels.

He noted that gas also accounts for about 80 percent of Ghana’s power generation fuel mix, helping to contain electricity production costs. However, supply shortfalls often force power producers to switch to liquid fuels, increasing costs for the economy.

Industry stakeholders at the summit said expanding regional gas infrastructure would require substantial investment from the private sector, development finance institutions and strategic investors.

Energy sector veteran Tsatsu Tsikata said stronger commercial arrangements, including secure payment systems and reliable gas supply mechanisms, would be necessary to support future regional projects and strengthen investor confidence.

Participants said the region’s growing electricity demand, driven by industrial activity, mineral processing and digital infrastructure development, underscores the need for sustained investment and cooperation in the gas sector.

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